I'd Love to But I Have a Game

Albert and Reilly (coauthor of The Boz ) have written a tongue-in-cheek autobiography that contains a humorous and perceptive look at the life of a professional sports broadcaster. Albert, an NBC announcer for football, basketball and boxing matches, and the voice of the New York Knicks and Rangers, has been working in the sports world since he was a teenager. Through dogged effort and the influence of sportscaster Marty Glickman, he became the radio voice of the Knicks. There are blunt characterizations here of some of the most prominent names in sports: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (who was terrified that the Knicks' Willis Reed would ``rearrange his dental work''), Reggie Jackson (``One of the most manipulative people I've ever known.'') and the ever personable Howard Cosell (Albert once asked him for career advice and Cosell replied: ``Guys like you are a dime a dozen.''). Albert makes good points on the controversies surrounding the NFL's policy on instant replay and has valuable tips for young broadcasters. Albert comes across as a man who thoroughly enjoys his work, and sports buffs, especially younger ones, will like this book. (Dec.)